Bolt says it's open to dialogue on EV boda riders’ concerns

Digital riders demonstrate in town on May 25, 2026/EZEKIEL AMING'A

Bolt has said it is open to dialogue over concerns raised on earnings and fairness in the platform by a section of its electric vehicle boda riders.

“We hear the concerns raised and understand that questions around earnings and fairness matter deeply to the riders who depend on our platform every day. We remain fully open to dialogue,” the company said.

The ride-hailing platform said it had noted the grievances expressed by riders during Monday’s protest in Nairobi, where digital operators staged a peaceful convoy through major roads in the city, calling for improved compensation and fairer working conditions.

Wearing reflective jackets and helmets, the riders moved in organised formation beneath the Nairobi Expressway, drawing attention from motorists, pedestrians and commuters during the daytime procession. The demonstration temporarily slowed traffic in some sections of the city but remained largely peaceful, with riders maintaining lane discipline.

The protest comes amid growing concerns among digital riders over reduced trip fares, high commission charges and rising operational costs. Many riders say the current earnings model is making it difficult to sustain livelihoods despite the continued growth of app-based transport services in Nairobi.

Riders also pointed to frequent fare adjustments and increased competition within the sector, which they argue has further reduced their take-home earnings. The convoy moved through busy commercial areas before dispersing peacefully later in the day.

Bolt said there had been a pricing imbalance within its electric vehicle category, which it has now corrected.

“We would like to clarify that there was a longstanding pricing anomaly where EV trips had historically been priced higher than petrol (ICE) equivalents, which did not reflect the lower running costs of electric vehicles. We, therefore, corrected this by aligning EV pricing slightly below ICE, as a fairness adjustment, and not a reduction in earnings,” the company said.

The firm maintained that its commission structure remains unchanged, dismissing claims of any increase in charges imposed on riders.

“On commissions, nothing has changed. Our commission rates remain the same as before, and any claims that Bolt has raised or imposed excessive commissions are incorrect,” it said.

Bolt reiterated its commitment to a fair and sustainable platform, saying it is open to continued engagement with riders and stakeholders.

“Bolt remains committed to a fair, transparent, and sustainable platform for all riders. We are open to continued engagement with riders and relevant stakeholders to address any concerns through constructive dialogue,” said Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager, East Africa, Bolt.

The company said it will continue engaging stakeholders as discussions around earnings and working conditions in the sector continue.